FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Find fast facts about park rules, getting to the La Pavona dock, and the best times to see wildlife.
How do you get to Tortuguero National Park?
Access is exclusively by boat or small aircraft. Most visitors take a 1 to 1.5 hour public boat or private water taxi from the La Pavona dock. You can also fly from San Jose in 25 minutes.
Can you drive a rental car to Tortuguero?
No, there are no roads to Tortuguero. You can drive to La Pavona, which has secure long-term parking for rental cars, and catch a boat from there. Read more in Travel Guide.
When is the best time to see turtles in Tortuguero?
Green sea turtle nesting primarily happens from July through mid-October. Leatherback turtles nest from March to May. Night tours run in controlled slots between 8:00 PM and 12:00 AM. See Turtle Nesting Calendar.
What is the entrance fee for Tortuguero National Park?
The official entrance fee is $15 USD plus 13% tax for non-resident adults. Children ages 2 to 12 pay $5 USD. Tickets must be purchased online in advance via the official SINAC website.
How many days do you need in Tortuguero?
Plan for 2 to 3 days. This gives you time to travel there, take an early morning boat tour, and participate in a night turtle nesting walk without rushing.
Can you swim at the beach in Tortuguero?
No. Swimming in the ocean is strictly prohibited. The waters are known for dangerous rip currents and sharks.
Is Tortuguero National Park worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you want to see sea turtles. It is the most important nesting site for the endangered green sea turtle in the Western Hemisphere.
What animals can you see in Tortuguero National Park?
You can spot green, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead turtles. The park is also home to monkeys, sloths, caimans, and 442 bird species.
How long is the boat ride from La Pavona to Tortuguero?
The boat ride down the La Suerte river takes 1 to 1.5 hours. A one-way trip on the public boat costs approximately $8 USD.
Are there ATMs in Tortuguero village?
ATMs are extremely rare in the village. Bring enough cash in Costa Rican Colones or US Dollars before you arrive.
What is the weather like in Tortuguero Costa Rica?
The park is very humid and rainy, averaging 6,000 mm (236 inches) of rain per year. The driest months are March, April, and September.
Do you need a guide for Tortuguero National Park?
Visitors must be accompanied by an authorized local guide during night turtle nesting tours. Daytime visits to the canals and trails can be done without a guide, though one helps for wildlife spotting.